Hi all,

I'm new here, but planning on becoming a full-blown s2k member *and* owner within a month, and i have a couple questions. I've looked through all the FAQ's, and couldn't find the answers to these (please don't flame me for being a n00b )

1: I know this is disputed, but... I like the 9k redline of the 00-03's, but the better torque band of the 04+.. Does the improved torque band make a big difference? (FYI, I have no problems with shifting a lot ) Any thoughts?

2: In regard to the previous question: I plan on someday supercharging it... is one of the two engines (F20c or F22c) better suited to supercharging than the other? Anything else I should keep in mind when buying regarding a future s/c?

3: I know that the 02's are a step up from previous models, but are there any differences at all between the 02 and 03 models?

4: The Silverstone w/ red/black interior is awesome! What's the first year this combination existed?

5: I want to pay cash for my s2k (that's why I have to wait one more month... I'm saving up). Do dealers like it when customers pay straight cash; i.e. will that give me a better bargaining position than if I were to finance it?

Thanks everyone, and I hope to be meeting up with fellow Houston area s2k owners very soon!

 

1: I know this is disputed, but... I like the 9k redline of the 00-03's, but the better torque band of the 04+.. Does the improved torque band make a big difference? (FYI, I have no problems with shifting a lot smile.gif ) Any thoughts?

(Hah, you're looking to start a war) There is no big difference between the two cars, the AP2 has more power, but you won't really notice it. Also, because of the greater low end power, when VTec kicks in, you don't feel it as much. You'll shift a lot with either engine, but fwiw, I ended up with an 04 over an 03 because I liked the revised body elements, nicer interior, bigger wheels, etc in addition to the engine - I don't make my choice based soley on engine, and I don't think you should either.

2: In regard to the previous question: I plan on someday supercharging it... is one of the two engines (F20c or F22c) better suited to supercharging than the other? Anything else I should keep in mind when buying regarding a future s/c?

The two mods (bang for the buck) that will reinvent the S2000 are new gears and a SC. You can add both to either style, but add gears if you add a SC as the S's diff can easily break under the added power.

3: I know that the 02's are a step up from previous models, but are there any differences at all between the 02 and 03 models?

No.

4: The Silverstone w/ red/black interior is awesome! What's the first year this combination existed?

Not sure, but fwiw, about half of all S2000s in North America are Silverstone and Sebring, so finding one that's in good condition should be easy.

5: I want to pay cash for my s2k (that's why I have to wait one more month... I'm saving up). Do dealers like it when customers pay straight cash; i.e. will that give me a better bargaining position than if I were to finance it?

Yes and no - don't discuss how you will pay for the car until you negotiate price. Dealers will lower the price if they think they can make it back on financing, but until you have a solid price, just say how you'll pay depends on what the price ends up being.

 

5: like what saki GT said.. heck if you;re going to pay in cash.. make it seem like you're going to finance it.. so the price will come down.. then you can catch them and throw it back in their face like how they always do to customers..

 

3: I know that the 02's are a step up from previous models, but are there any differences at all between the 02 and 03 models?

Yes, but minor. The roof on the 03 was reinforced in a few spots that are prone to wear. Again not a big deal, but a hole in the roof is.

 

[QUOTE=Dr. WOT,Jun 10 2006, 04:24 PM]3: I know that the 02's are a step up from previous models, but are there any differences at all between the 02 and 03 models?

Yes, but minor.

 

I am,

I hope you your hunt goes well. The S2000 is a marvelous car. You won't go wrong with any year. A note on early 2002 model year cars... There are two differences that weren't mentioned here (with later cars) that you should be aware of:

1. The 2-hole oil bolt was replaced mid year with a 4-hole oil bolt. We never got a clear statement on what this was all about from Honda, but many believe the 4-holer (later models) are less prone to oil starvation in the #4 cylinder -- a problem that plagued a small percentage of early year cars.

2. The spark plug type and torque was changed late in the year, and an actual recall was issued for all cars built before the phase-in. Make sure the spark plug recall was done and, hell, just buy a new set from your dealer and torque 'em in at 18 lb-ft.

Best wishes.